40,300 COPIES FOR FAMILIES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN
Merseyside
Winter Issue 87 14 November 2022 - 12 March 2023
www.primarytimes.co.uk
Merseyside’s best family guide for what’s on and where to go in the region
CONTENTS
CONTENTS
HELLO READERS!
Hello and welcome to our Christmas issue, packed full of sparkling inspiration to help you plan some fun as the festive season quickly approaches! Whether it’s the joy of seeing Santa, staring in awe at twinkling Christmas light displays or visiting enticing winter wonderlands, Christmas should be a time for both heart-warming traditions and family gatherings, without breaking the bank. We’ve pulled together all the best events in the region, for all budgets, which offer the best of both – browse through our festive and diary pages to help navigate your way through the superb variety of Christmas countdown activities and destinations with your children! Finally, as we come to the year end, we would like to say an enormous thank you to all teachers, school staff and our advertisers who help make Primary Times the great magazine that it is – we couldn’t do it without your constant and enthusiastic support. Have a truly fabulous Christmas creating happy family memories for years to come, and we look forward to seeing you in again in 2023!
Ne issue xt Marcout h 13th
4
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
6
FESTIVE DIARY
11
WHAT’S ON WHERE THIS SEASON
14
WINTER RECIPES BY JAMIE OLIVER
15
LOCAL THEATRE
16
CHRISTMAS QUIZ
Published by Moonscape Media Ltd MEMBER This magazine T: 0118 972 4980 is audited by BPA E: office@primarytimesmag.com Editor: Michelle Dilger Production: Nathan Pretlove • Advertising: Kerry Beardsmore Listings Editor: Suzanne Watson • Features Editor: Helen Chitham Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through primary schools in Merseyside. It aims to inform families and children about current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses, attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or by joining in the competitions. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in Merseyside for their assistance in distributing the magazine and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary Times or with the relevant contributor. Primary Times is currently publishing over 2 million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout the UK. Primary Times Merseyside is operated under franchise licence.
For Advertisers We are the largest free magazine in Merseyside reaching 100,750 family readers. If you’d like to advertise directly to this audience please call Kerry on 07710 229 189
Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out
WINTER ISSUE 2022/23
3
PARENTS LOCAL KNOWLEDGE FOR & TEACHERS
EUREKA! CONNECTS THE EVERYDAY WITH THE EXTRAORDINARY
LJMU OFFERS QUALIFICATIONS DESIGNED FOR FUTURE TEACHERS WISHING TO ENTER THE PROFESSION
Eureka! Science + Discovery is unlike anywhere you’ve ever experienced, encouraging young people up to the age of 14 to reframe how they see the world around them. Across three zones, the attraction explores the everyday through the uniqueness of our bodies, the things that make up the fabric of our homes, and the wonder of the environment we live in through hundreds of exciting and interactive activities. Eureka! is a day out for everyone, from creative fun-loving types to science buffs – or a mix of the two! It connects the everyday with the extraordinary, ignites curiosities, and encourages us all to question and challenge and come up with bigger and better possibilities for our futures.
Liverpool John Moores University’s Learning Development and Support degree provides professionals, such as teaching assistants, nursery staff and mentors who work in an educational setting, an opportunity to study for a part-time qualification while working. This course can be studied flexibly, with teaching sessions on Saturdays enabling you to work and study to a timetable that suits you. Graduate, Dawn commented: “The course opened my eyes to a variety of educational topics relevant to my job role, providing me with the knowledge and skills required to do it more effectively. I now feel equipped and empowered to explore a career which involves supporting ‘vulnerable’ children.” Find out more by visiting the LJMU website and book yourself on to an open day in Liverpool.
W: www.eurekadiscovery.org.uk/
W: www.ljmu.ac.uk
4
WINTER ISSUE 2022/23
Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out
Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out
WINTER ISSUE 2022/23
5
FESTIVE DIARY Christmas is always a special time of the year, but what makes it so magical is family time, festive activities and traditions that are enjoyed and live on. Create your own ways to celebrate by planning a visit to some of these twinkling destinations – all geared up to make this your merriest Christmas yet!
WILL CINDERELLA MEET THE HANDSOME PRINCE? FIND OUT AT ST HELENS THEATRE ROYAL! With one wave of a magic wand, the audience will be whisked off to a glamorous ball this Christmas as Regal Entertainments present their spellbinding tale of Cinderella at St Helens Theatre Royal from 3rd December -8th January. Cinderella tells the story of a beautiful girl who is reduced to a life of servitude by her two ugly stepsisters, but that is all set to change when an invitation to a grand ball at the palace arrives! With real Shetland ponies, enchanted pumpkins and a sparkling fairy-tale carriage filled with festive fun, Cinderella promises to be the most lavish pantomime in all the land! Box Office T: 01744 756000 W: www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com
Copyright Luxmuralis
LIVERPOOL CATHEDRAL BRINGS THE NATIVITY STORY TO LIFE WITH STUNNING SOUND AND COLOUR Liverpool Cathedral is ready to bring some extra sparkle to the city’s Christmas celebrations with an immersive experience bringing the Nativity story to life with a stunning display of lights, projections and sounds from the 2nd - 9th December. ‘The Light Before Christmas: The Angels Are Coming!’ tickets are from Ticket Quarter online or by calling 0344 8000. Sessions are from 4.30 pm. Tickets are £8.80 for adults and £6.60 for children aged from 3 to 16. Children under 3 are free when accompanied by an adult. Family tickets (two adults with three children) are available at £27.50. Prices include a booking fee. W: www.liverpoolcathedral.org.uk
TIME TO PLAN A CRACKING GOOD CHRISTMAS AT VILLAGE HOTEL CLUB LIVERPOOL! Shake your baubles and swing your tinsel – Village Hotel Club Liverpool has got an amazing line up of Christmas events for you! From big Christmas Parties with fabulous food & drink, festive dining in the Pub & Grill, family lunches and private parties to Christmas Day with all the trimmings and a New Year’s Eve extravaganza you won’t want to miss. Give them a call direct or book online today. W: village-hotels.co.uk/christmas
CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS AT LIVERPOOL PHILHARMONIC Liverpool Philharmonic is throwing the biggest Christmas party in town! First, there’s a Singalong with Santa from 17th -18th December. Containing all the magical ingredients for the perfect family celebration, expect festive favourites from ‘Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer’ to ‘Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree’ plus a visit from Father Christmas! Then enjoy screenings of E.T. The Extra Terrestrial and family favourite The Gruffalo, accompanied by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra on the 30th December & 28th January. And for families with children aged 7 and above, don’t forget their festive extravaganza, Spirit of Christmas, featuring special guests alongside their Orchestra and Choirs from 17th -23rd December. Box Office T: 0151 709 3789 W: www.liverpoolphil.com
6
WINTER ISSUE 2022/23
Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out
8
WINTER ISSUE 2022/23
Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out
FESTIVE DIARY
LIVERPOOL ALPINE VILLAGE BRINGS CHRISTMAS TO LIFE FOR ALL THE FAMILY There’s a lot to feel jolly about when you head to Liverpool ONE this festive season! Visit the magical ski holiday-inspired alpine wonderland taking over Chavasse Park and enjoy karaoke, curling, shuffleboard, food and drink stalls and festive family events. On various dates from 27th November – 6th December, join delightful, friendly Wreath Making Workshops and create your very own Christmas wreath. And for little ones, on Sundays in December and the week leading up to Christmas, it’s the chance to meet Santa - this familyfriendly booking includes a karaoke hütte for one hour, free hot chocolate and colouring pads for the kids, plus the chance to get a picture with Santa Claus. Visit their website to book your chosen activities! W: www.liverpool-one.com/christmas/
SPECTACULAR SHOWS TO ENTERTAIN THE FAMILY THIS CHRISTMAS Come Together this Christmas at the M&S Bank Arena Liverpool as they have a magical array of shows for you and the family to enjoy all together. Join Aladdin and Jasmine in the Christmas pantomime, where all your wishes can come true, and laugh along to Elf - the arena spectacular as the Hollywood blockbuster is brought to life right in front of your eyes. Or prepare to be dazzled as Hot Wheels Monster Trucks light up the floor in a one-of-a-kind, high-energy Glow Party experience when the huge riproaring trucks soar into the arena in January 2023. Whatever you decide, you can be sure to make memories that last a lifetime. W: www.mandsbankarena.com
THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR AT WAYFARERS Santa is in the unique Victorian Wayfarers Arcade in Southport on the 19th, 26th November; 3rd, 10th, 17th December and those fun Frozen characters will be in residence from 21st – 24th December. For a donation of £10, children will receive a quality present they will love. A jingly fun Elf Party with dancing, games and much more will take place on Sunday 27th November and 4th, 11th, 18th December. Cost is £10 per child and booking is essential. For more information on how to sign up your child for an exceptional festive experience, visit them online. W: wayfarersarcade.co.uk
MAKE SURE LIVERPOOL INDOOR FUNFAIR IS ON YOUR CHRISTMAS TO-DO LIST! Located at the Exhibition Centre on the Albert Docks, Liverpool Indoor Funfair is the ultimate family day out which is running from the 26th December to 3rd January. They have assembled a great mix of children’s rides and large rides for all age groups to enjoy, all at one great price! Rider’s tickets are £12.99 for a 3-hour session which includes unlimited access to all the rides. It truly is the ideal Christmas treat for all the family. So, what are you waiting for? Get your tickets now online and follow their Facebook page for giveaways! W: www.indoorfunfair.org
Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out
WINTER ISSUE 2022/23
9
FESTIVE DIARY
A CHRISTMAS CAROL, KNOWSLEY STYLE, COMES TO THE COCKPIT THEATRE! Ebeneezer Scrooge is mean, no doubt about that. But, as Christmas approaches he’s going to get the fright of his life. Three mysterious Christmas visitors make him see that there is more to life than counting his pennies. What follows is an important tale of friendship, compassion and humanity. This Christmas, Shakespeare North Playhouse will recreate the classic play with a distinctly Knowsley feel. The result will be a slightly bonkers, fast and furious retelling of the original text with a host of musical instruments, some familiar local references and a sprinkling of pantomime fun! Performances from 25th November to 7th January at The Cockpit Theatre, tickets from £3 and suitable for all ages. W: shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk
FESTIVE FUN AND YOUR SHOPPING DONE Blakemere feels magical at Christmas, you can explore its independent shops, relax in its cosy eateries, and enjoy festive activities. Take time to shop for unique Christmas gifts for the whole family, including artisan crafts, children’s toys, jewellery, homeware, fashion, antiques, collectables and festive houseplants. Blakemere is also brimming with seasonal events for the whole family to enjoy. Create lasting memories at the Magical Woodland, The Playbarn’s Christmas Party or Blakemere’s self-led Yule Ville Christmas Trail. For crafty types, Cheshire Craft Workshop and Crafts in the Corner are hosting several festive workshops. W: blakemerevillage.com
TINY REINDEER OUTDOOR STORY TRAIL – A HEART-WARMING ADVENTURE FOR LITTLE ONES
Join the team at Calderstones Park for some seasonal magic from the 26th November to 23rd December – where even the very smallest of us can do something BIG! This Christmas they’re wrapping up warm and going on a brand new outdoor festive adventure, based on the beautiful book Tiny Reindeer by Chris NaylorBallesteros. Their self-led trails are perfect for families with children aged 4-9, but everyone is welcome. Price is £12.99 per family (includes one copy of the book; and a map for every child). Tickets can be purchased on the day or online in advance. W: https://linktr.ee/thestorybarn Illustrations © by Chris Naylor-Ballesteros, from ‘Tiny Reindeer’ published by Andersen Press, 2021
WILL CINDERELLA MEET THE HANDSOME PRINCE? FIND OUT AT ST HELENS THEATRE ROYAL! With one wave of a magic wand, the audience will be whisked off to a glamorous ball this Christmas as Regal Entertainments present their spellbinding tale of Cinderella at St Helens Theatre Royal from 3rd December-8th January. Cinderella tells the story of a beautiful girl who is reduced to a life of servitude by her two ugly step-sisters, but that is all set to change when an invitation to a grand ball at the palace arrives! With real Shetland ponies, enchanted pumpkins and a sparkling fairy-tale carriage filled with festive fun, Cinderella promises to be the most lavish pantomime in all the land! Box Office T: 01744 756000 W: www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com
10 WINTER ISSUE 2022/23
Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out
FAMILY LIFE
WHAT’S ON WHERE ONGOING
NOVEMBER Tuesday 22nd
Once Upon a Pantomime Step inside an enchanting Christmas Mansion full of your favourite pantomimes, with seasonal music, and special lighting from the grand state rooms to the servant’s quarters. Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire. Running until 1st January. Book your tickets online. W: www.tattonpark.org.uk
Liverpool Alpine Village
Friday 25th
Book now to visit the magical ski holiday-inspired alpine wonderland taking over Chavasse Park at Liverpool ONE this Christmas. Along with karaoke, you can expect curling, shuffleboard, prosecco pong, food and drink stalls and festive family events. Running until 31st December. Bookings www.liverpool-one.com/ christmas
Christmas at Speke Hall Make some new Christmas memories and have festive fun this year at Speke Hall. Step inside the decorated house, take a winter stroll through Speke’s magical gardens and estate and enjoy seasonal treats at Home Farm and Breakfast with Father Christmas. Speke Hall, National Trust. W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ speke-hall
Liverpool ONE Christmas Lights Trail
Saturday 26th
The new Christmas lighting scheme glows, providing a festive backdrop for your trip to Liverpool this season. Spot giant reindeers and our brandnew neon trees on Paradise Street, as well as the new 25-metre tree! Across Liverpool ONE until 31st December. W: www.liverpool-one.com/ christmas
Immerse yourself into the festive atmosphere as you take a steam train trip with a host of happy elves and Father Christmas himself. Also on 27th November, December 3rd/4th, 10th/11th,17th/18th, 20th-23rd and 24th. East Lancashire Railway. W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk/ events-
Bark Hütte at the Liverpool Alpine Village A pup-sized hütte for pictures complete with ‘pawsecco’, and complimentary dog treats to get the whole gang in the festive spirit, including photo props. Until 31st December, Chavasse Park, Liverpool ONE. W: www.liverpool-one.com/ christmas/
Meet Santa at John Lewis & Partners Meet Santa and feel the magic of Christmas come alive, and take home a LEGO® or LEGO DUPLO® gift. Make a booking to visit Santa, which can be made on the day of your visit provided there is space. Include up to four children on each booking. Until 24th December, John Lewis & Partners, Paradise Street, Liverpool ONE W: www.liverpool-one.com/meetsanta-at-john-lewis/
Santa Specials 2022
Tiny Reindeer Outdoor Story Trail This Christmas wrap up warm and go on a brand new festive adventure around Calderstones park, based on the beautiful book Tiny Reindeer by Chris Naylor-Ballesteros. Self-led 90 minute trails. Ages 4-9. Running until 23rd December. £12.99 per family. W: www.linktr.ee/thestorybarn
Father Christmas at the Farm Meet Father Christmas and his elves in a festive grotto at the Farm, as well as enjoying roaming entertainers and live music from festive choirs and brass bands. Selected dates only. Running until 20th December. Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire. Book your tickets online. W: www.tattonpark.org.uk We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip … or promise!
Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out
WINTER ISSUE 2022/23 11
FAMILY LIFE Meet the Scientist
Liverpool Cathedral
Meet scientists from the University of Liverpool at this interactive, hands-on science day for all the family. World Museum, Liverpool. W: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/ whatson/world-museum
Liverpool Cathedral is ready to bring some extra sparkle to the city’s Christmas celebrations with an immersive experience bringing the Nativity story to life with a stunning display of lights, projections and sounds from 2nd-9th December. Tickets: 0344 8000
The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year At Wayfarers Santa is in the Wayfarers Arcade 26th November 3rd ,10th ,17th December, and those fun Frozen characters will be in residence from 21st – 24th December. For a donation of £10 children will receive a quality present they will love. An elf party with dancing and games will take place on 27th November, 4th, 11th, 18th December. £10 per child. Booking essential. Wayfarers Shopping Arcade, Lord Street, Southport PR8 1NT. W: wayfarersarcade.co.uk
Sunday 27th
Wreath Making Workshops at the Liverpool Alpine Village Enjoy a delightful, friendly class with friends and create your very own handmade Christmas wreath, in the wonderful surroundings of the Liverpool Alpine Village. Various dates from 27th November to 6th December, Chavasse Park, Liverpool ONE. W: www.liverpool-one.com/ christmas/
DECEMBER Thursday 1st
Liverpool ONE’s Advent Calendar Giveaway Make sure you are following Liverpool One on social media and have signed up to their newsletter for details on how you can win a fabulous prize every day for 12 days, from 1st-12th December. W: www.liverpool-one.com/ christmas
Friday 2nd
Up Close With: Nature in the Snow Explore the Arctic and other snowy habitats to learn about the incredible animals and plants that survive in the snow. Other dates in December available. World Museum, Liverpool. W: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/ whatson/world-museum
12 WINTER ISSUE 2022/23
Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out
Christmas Gift Fair Find special Christmas gifts not found on the high street at this artisan food and gift fair. (Free entry to the fair, Parkland entry applies) 2nd-4th December. Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire. Book your tickets online. W: www.tattonpark.org.uk
Saturday 3rd
Christmas Crafts Christmas decoration workshop at Grosvenor Museum, Chester. 10.30am-12.30pm. Drop in. Also on December 10th, 17th, events. W: www.westcheshiremuseums. co.uk/event/
Church Farm Santa Experience Santa drops in to Church Farm for a few days in December on his way to the North Pole. He also brings his friends the elves, Jingle from The North Pole Postal Service, and his real reindeer. Visit the beautifully lit-up farm for songs, dancing and audience participation. Church Farm, Wirral. Also on December 3rd/4th, 10th/11th, 17th/18th, 20th/21st/22nd. W: www.churchfarmevents.co.uk/ thesantaexperience
Sunday 4th
Meet Santa at the Liverpool Alpine Village This family-friendly booking includes a karaoke hütte for one-hour, free hot chocolate and colouring pads for the kids, plus the chance to get a picture with Santa Claus. £20 for a minimum of two people, maximum of eight. Runs Sundays in December and the week leading up to Christmas, Chavasse Park, Liverpool ONE. W: www.liverpool-one.com/ christmas/
Friday 9th
Northern Chamber Orchestra Christmas Concert A Christmas concert full of festive favourites, as well as readings and carols sung by the choir of St Nicholas Catholic High School, Northwich. Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire. W: www.tattonpark.org.uk or www.ncorch.co.uk/nco_events/ christmas-concert/
FAMILY LIFE Santa’s Quiet Grotto
Craft and Create: Boodles
Visits to Santa for children with additional needs. These sessions can only be pre-booked, with no queuing on the day and a reduced number of families attending in each slot. During your visit, all music will be off, twinkling lights are removed or switched off, choose to have your child’s gift wrapped. Dobbies, Liverpool, Speke Hall Avenue, Liverpool. T:0151 7283070
A special family craft inspired by the glitz and glamour of the sparkling Boodles exhibition. Also on 28th December. Lady Lever Art Gallery. W: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/
JANUARY Sunday 2nd
Saturday 10th
Lucy in the Sky Wishing Wand
Crafty Christmas at The Museum
Make a star wand based on the iconic Beatles song and use it to make new year wishes? Also on 4th January. The Beatles Story, Royal Albert Dock Liverpool. W: www.beatlesstory.com//events
Take the opportunity to create something festive in our fun, childfriendly art and craft session. Mersey Maritime Museum. W: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/
Saturday 7th Sunday 18th
Christmas Carols in the Stableyard Sing-along to Christmas classics and favourites with the King Edward Society Musical Bans and Choir. Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire. Book your tickets online. W: www.tattonpark.org.uk
Family Art Club Is your child aged between 7 and 12? Do they love art and being creative? If so, this family art club is perfect for you. Explore the gallery, experiment with different materials and learn new skills. No experience is necessary and all materials will be provided. Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool. W: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/
Titanic Crafts Saturday 24th
Bauble Workshop Get festive in the Discovery Zone and create your own Beatles themed Christmas bauble! The Beatles Story, Royal Albert Dock Liverpool. W: www.beatlesstory.com//events
Monday 26th
Liverpool Indoor Funfair Located at the Exhibition Centre on the Albert Docks, Liverpool Indoor Funfair is the ultimate family day out. A great mix of children’s rides and large rides for all age groups to enjoy. Rider’s tickets are £12.99 for a 3-hour session which includes unlimited access to all the rides. Running until 3rd January. W: www.indoorfunfair.org
Tuesday 27th
Fun family activity at Mersey Maritime Museum. Also on 8th January. W: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/
Sunday 8th
Miniature Railway at Calderstones Park Go for a ride on the Miniature Railway at Calderstones Park, run by Merseyside Live Steam and Model Engineering Society. The Railway is on the west side of the park, just by the Harthill Road entrance. The Railway provides free rides on Sundays from 2pm (weather permitting). W: www.liverpool.gov.uk
Saturday 28th
Chinese New Year Celebrate the Year of the Rabbit, at Lady Lever Art Gallery. A fun day of events including family craft workshops. Lady Lever Art Gallery. W: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/
Lennon Glasses Workshop Create pair of glasses inspired by John Lennon. Make them as funky as you like! Also on 29th December. The Beatles Story, Royal Albert Dock Liverpool. W: www.beatlesstory.com//events
We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip … or promise!
Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out
WINTER ISSUE 2022/23 13
THE ATKINSON
FLORAL PAVILION
www.theatkinson.co.uk/events
Box Office: 0151 666 0000
Saturday 26th November
UNWRAPPING “BOB” THE DUMMY MUMMY
Saturday 3rd DecemberMonday 2nd January
CINDERELLA
Join Egyptology expert Molly to learn all about the ancient Egyptian craft of mummification and what it meant to journey into the Afterlife. This family friendly event is suitable for children and completely free!
Full of sparkling sets, lavish costumes, amazing song and dance numbers, giggles galore and bags of audience participation.
Saturday 26th November
STORYTIME WITH SANTA
EGYPTOLOGY: FAMILY PUPPET SHOW This family friendly puppet show depicts the legendary discovery of Tutankhamun in 1922. Thursday 8th -Saturday 31st December
ALADDIN TV and film sensation Patsy Kensit stars as the Genie of the Lamp! If you wish for one thing this year, make it a trip to see Aladdin. Thursday 12th-Sunday 22nd January
SNOW WHITE- A MODERN FAMILY PANTOMIME All Souls Dramatic Club return to The Atkinson with a brand new adaptation of the classic Brothers Grimm fairy tale. Wednesday 1st-Thursday 2nd February
TALES FROM ACORN WOOD Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved Tales from Acorn Wood stories are brought to life on stage for the first time in an enchanting experience.
EPSTEIN THEATRE www.epsteintheatre.co.uk/ whats-on/ Monday 28th November
BALLET THEATRE UK: BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Join Ballet Theatre UK with one of the most enchanting love stories of all time. Friday 9th December-Sunday 1st January
GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS Join Goldilocks this festive season who, with the help of the Three Bears, tries to save her Big Top from a rival circus owner!
Sunday 11th and 17th-24th December
FAMILY THEATRE GUIDE Thursday 12th-Sunday 15th January
ALADDIN-HAWK Full of eastern promise, this rags to riches tale of the boy from China who falls in love with the princess will have you booing and cheering from beginning to end. Will the evil Abanazar get his hands on the magic lamp or will true love win all?
LIVERPOOL EMPIRE
ROYAL LIVERPOOL PHILHARMONIC www.liverpoolphil.com Saturday 17th-Sunday 18th December
SINGALONG WITH SANTA Containing all the magical ingredients for the perfect family celebration, expect festive favourites from ‘Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer’ to ‘Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree’, plus a visit from Father Christmas!
Now in its 11th Year this wonderful show will bring the magic of Christmas alive as children will be captivated by traditional and modern stories as well as plenty of festive songs to join in with, in what promises to be a fun experience for the whole family.
Sunday 27th November
Thursday 5th -Sunday 8th January 2023
Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol will be presented live in concert this winter, with its musical score performed live to the film.
E.T THE EXTRATERRESTRIAL
Thursday 1st-Saturday 3rd December
Saturday 28th January
THE CHRYSANTHS PANTO - RED RIDING HOOD As the oldest panto society in the country, and six times nominees of The Best Pantomime award, the chrysanth’s Red Riding Hood is full of local talent, comedy, dancing and fabulous costumes. Friday 3rd February
THE SMARTEST GIANT IN TOWN This heart-warming tale about friendship and helping those in need is brought to life in a musical, puppet-filled adventure.
GLADSTONE THEATRE www.gladstonetheatre.org.uk Saturday 3rd December
FATHER CHRISTMAS NEEDS A WEE TaleGate Theatre Productions hit the perfect combination of witty humour, fantastic music and extra sparkle in this fabulously funny and brilliantly bouncy musical adaptation of Nicholas Allan’s much loved book. Friday 9th-Saturday 31st December
SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS The magical Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs are making their way into The Gladstone Theatre this Christmas as the Dreamworld Entertainments team return for another fabulous family pantomime in Port Sunlight.
We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip …or promise!
www.atgtickets.com/venues/ liverpool-empire/
THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL IN CONCERT
SHREK THE MUSICAL BOST Musicals are returning to the Liverpool Empire with their hilarious production of Shrek The Musical. This is an amateur production. Monday 23rd-Wednesday 25th January
VARNA INTERNATIONAL BALLET
Saturday 17th, 21st-23rd December
SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS Perfect for families ages 7+. Friday 30th December
Film with live orchestra, performances at 2pm and 7.30pm.
THE GRUFFALO AND THE GRUFFALO’S CHILD Film with a live orchestra, performances at 11am and 2.30pm.
SHAKESPEARE NORTH PLAYHOUSE www.shakespearenorth playhouse.co.uk/
The Ballet company perform Giselle, Swan Lake and the Nutcracker over three nights.
Friday 25th November-Saturday 7th January
Saturday 28th January
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
SING-A-LONG-AENCANTO From the producers of Sing-aLong-a Sound of Music and Singa-Long-a Frozen, the brand new smash hit film musical of 2021 about the Family Madrigal with lyrics on screen that everyone can’t stop singing. Thursday 2nd-Saturday 4th February
HEY DUGGEE Squirrels get ready! Everyone’s big lovable dog Hey Duggee is touring for the first time ever.
LIVERPOOL EVERYMAN W:www.everymanplayhouse.com Friday 25th November-14th January
ROCK’N’ROLL PANTO RED RIDING HOOD You might think you know the story of Red Riding Hood, but this is the tale told Everyman style! There will be outlandish and sparkling costumes, plenty of plot twists and surprises, and full to the brim with musical hits performed by a company of supremely talented actor musicians.
This Christmas, Shakespeare North Playhouse will recreate the classic play with a distinctly Knowsley feel. The result will be a slightly bonkers, fast and furious retelling of the original text with a host of musical instruments, some familiar local references, and a sprinkling of pantomime fun! Tickets from £3.
ST HELEN’S THEATRE ROYAL www.sthelenstheatreroyal. com/whats-on/ Saturday 3rd December-Sunday 8th January
CINDERELLA With one wave of a magic wand, the audience will be whisked off to a glamorous ball this Christmas as Regal Entertainments present their spellbinding tale of Cinderella . Monday 30th-Tuesday 31st January
TALES FROM ACORN WOOD Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved Tales from Acorn Wood stories are brought to life on stage for the first time in an enchanting lift-the-flap experience.
Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out
WINTER ISSUE 2022/23 15
